ISLAMABAD, Dec 8: President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani have urged the nation to uphold the spirit of sacrifice and strive to alleviate the sufferings of their less fortunate brethren.

In his Eidul Azha message, the president said: “Let us determine that we have an obligation to our community through which we attain a higher purpose in life. It is our duty on this festive occasion to remember our less fortunate brethren and try to alleviate their sufferings.”

Mr Zardari said the occasion had a two-fold theme for the Muslims throughout the world, firstly to sacrifice one’s most prized possession to Allah’s will and secondly the unity of Muslims.

He said that in commemoration of the supreme sacrifice offered by Hazrat Ibrahim (may Allah be pleased with him), the Muslims also affirmed unity of action in an imperishable bond of brotherhood.

He said the celebration was also an occasion to reflect on the message that came through Prophet Muhammad (pace be upon him).

“The message of Islam is the message of social justice and of the rights of weak and dispossessed. In the midst of celebrations we must not forget those who suffer and endure and are deprived of true joy.”

President Zardari said that so many of people were living in despair and misery brought by unemployment, low wages or lack of justice. “Let us therefore also strive and pray on this day that the deprivation of people will soon be over and they regain their civil and economic rights,” he said.

In his message, Prime Minister Gilani urged the nation to stay above sectarian, regional, linguistic and other prejudices and work for country’s unity and progress.

All personal interests should be subordinated to national interests, for national solidarity, unity, harmony and progress.

He urged the people to shun hatred, promote understanding and love and cultivate brotherhood to foil conspiracies of the enemies of Pakistan and Islam.

—APP